Whistler: an even more beautiful destination in summer?

Known for its spectacular winters, Whistler also has a strong summer appeal. When the snow clears the peaks of the Coast Mountains, the famous ski resort north of Vancouver reveals a bustling village, lush nature, and a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

With 3 million visitors annually, Whistler is one of Western Canada's most popular vacation destinations, both winter and summer. While we spontaneously associate the iconic British Columbia resort with winter sports, we often forget that it's just as attractive once the warmer weather arrives. Summer attracts 55% of annual visitors, compared to 45% in winter.

A quick overview of the best things to do at the former Vancouver Games site. 1. Visit the Village

Surrounded by spectacular mountains, Whistler offers a vast natural playground. But the pedestrian village also captivates with its summer dynamism. More than 200 shops, cafés, and restaurants line its streets, including the new Brasserie Lorette, which showcases French and Quebec culinary traditions.

In the Blackcomb area, high-end hotels welcome visitors, including the prestigious Four Seasons Resort Whistler, renowned for its peak-view rooms and heated outdoor pool. Near the Fairmont Château, the Whistler Farmers' Market brings together local producers and artisans every Sunday in a friendly atmosphere.

Also, don't miss the Audain Art Museum and its fascinating collection of Indigenous masks, the Whistler Museum, which traces the history of pioneers and the 2010 Olympic Games, and the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, which showcases the region's Indigenous cultures.

2. Take care of yourself

The melting snow signals the start of spring renewal in Whistler. Every year, from late May to late June, the resort hosts the Nourish wellness series, a special program dedicated to awakening the body and mind. More than 60 activities are offered: inspiring talks, healthy and sustainable meals prepared by passionate chefs, and numerous experiences focused on rejuvenation. Among the highlights of the 2025 edition, chef Alana Maas has prepared a gourmet brunch served in the great outdoors on the peaceful shores of Alta Lake, a popular summer spot for swimming and kayaking.

Meanwhile, Nancy Trueman, a certified yoga and sound therapy practitioner, led an immersive one-hour session at the summit of Whistler Mountain, combining mindful breathing and a soothing sound bath. To extend this wellness experience, Scandinave Spa offers year-round rejuvenating sessions in the heart of the forest, with its outdoor hot and cold pools, saunas, and silent relaxation areas.

3. Treat yourself to a safari

Whistler Photo Safaris Ltd offers an immersive nature experience, guided by seasoned experts, to meet the black bears and their cubs thriving in the pristine environment of Whistler Olympic Park. Aboard a 4x4, you'll follow in the footsteps of these iconic animals, enjoying a unique opportunity to observe and photograph them in their natural habitat.

This safari is also an opportunity to discover spectacular landscapes, such as the impressive Alexander Falls, and to visit iconic facilities from the 2010 Olympic Games. The view from the top of the ski jumps is particularly worth the detour!

4. Get your adrenaline pumping

In the summer, Whistler becomes a mountain biking mecca, with nearly 300 kilometers of trails crisscrossing the ski area's slopes. The world-renowned Whistler Mountain Bike Park attracts thousands of enthusiasts who come to test its banked turns and spectacular jumps. Every August, the Crankworx festival brings together the international elite of freeride and downhill riders. But you don't have to be a mountain biker to get your fill of thrills.

The Sasquatch, North America's longest zip line, offers over 2 km of descent over the Fitzsimmons River, between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. The two peaks are also connected by the PEAK 2 PEAK gondola, which offers breathtaking 360° panoramas while floating between the sky and the peaks.

In summer, the gondola provides access to numerous hiking trails, the Cloudraker Suspension Bridge, and the spectacular Raven's Eye lookout suspended above the void. Before heading back down to the village, stop at the Roundhouse Lodge, at 1,800 meters, to enjoy the Mountain Top Summer Feast, a high-altitude dining experience accompanied by live music on weekends.

For more information: www.whistler.com